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George Reed

George Reed, OSL has served as a minister in the United Methodist church for over thirty years. He holds degrees from Wright State University and United Theological Seminary, both located in Dayton, Ohio. He has also taken graduate studies at the Institute of Formative Spirituality at Duquesne University. After serving various UMC churches in Ohio, Reed is now serving as the Intentional Interim Senior Pastor at Ada Congregational Church/United Church of Christ in Ada, Michigan. He is a contributor to the Sermons on the Gospel Readings series and is the author of three-volume (Cycles A, B, and C) series Lectionary Worship Aids, Series IX. Reed and his wife have three grown children.
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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Surprise! Surprise! Surprise! -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
This week we enter the season of Advent, and while the world around us is ratcheting up into full-b
'her Piece Is Bigger Than Mine' And Other Family Quarrels -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2010
In this week's gospel text Jesus visits the home of the sisters Mary and Martha, where he finds hims
A Love-Hate Relationship -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Kate Murphy, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
The figure of John the Baptist is one that seems oddly discordant in the middle of our "holiday" sea
Jesus, Prayer, And Mtv's 'my Super Sweet Sixteen' -- Luke 11:1-13, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Kate Murphy, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2010
This week's Old Testament and gospel texts suggest that our relationship with God is like that of ch
Shop Without Ceasing -- Matthew 11:2-11, Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
Another Black Friday -- the discount shopping bonanza that marks the day after Thanksgiving -- has c
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
Hey, Grinch -- Bring Back Christmas! -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Kate Murphy, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
On this final Sunday before Christmas, the collision between the secular Christmas season and the sa
The Unnamed 72 -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Genesis 15:1-6 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2010
This week's texts all have a common theme -- a call to a life of faith, and a forthright discussion
Responsibility -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2010
This week's gospel text can be a difficult one to approach -- while the final verse, in which Jesus
Flight Into Faith -- Matthew 2:13-23, Hebrews 2:10-18, Isaiah 63:7-9, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2010
The lectionary gospel text for the first Sunday after Christmas offers quite a contrast from the tra
Going Home -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2010
In the Old Testament text appointed by the lectionary for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Isaiah addresses
Humanness Vs. Godliness -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2010
The events of Holy Week, from the triumphal entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through the Last
An Anti-Easter World -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2010
When Mary Magdalene and the other women discovered the empty tomb, it completely changed everything
Seeing, Hearing, Discovering -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts feature the story of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus, and the
Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Is America A Christian Nation? -- John 13:31-35, Acts 11:1-8, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
The volcano in Iceland that disrupted travel and commerce throughout Europe has not been the only er
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
The Comfort Zone -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, George L. Murphy, Chris Ewing, Carlos Wilton, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 4, 2005)
Stealing Christmas? -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton, George Reed, Carter Shelley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 18, 2005)
The Prince Of Peace In A World Of Violence -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), John 1:1-14, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
(Originally published for December 24-25, 2005)
Free-Riders, Nominals, And Nones -- Luke 21:5-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C
The lectionary readings appointed for Proper 28 provide us with powerful messages about the futu

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Going Home -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2010
In the Old Testament text appointed by the lectionary for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Isaiah addresses
Humanness Vs. Godliness -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2010
The events of Holy Week, from the triumphal entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through the Last
An Anti-Easter World -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2010
When Mary Magdalene and the other women discovered the empty tomb, it completely changed everything
Seeing, Hearing, Discovering -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts feature the story of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus, and the
Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Is America A Christian Nation? -- John 13:31-35, Acts 11:1-8, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
The volcano in Iceland that disrupted travel and commerce throughout Europe has not been the only er
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
The Comfort Zone -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, George L. Murphy, Chris Ewing, Carlos Wilton, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 4, 2005)
Stealing Christmas? -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton, George Reed, Carter Shelley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 18, 2005)
The Prince Of Peace In A World Of Violence -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), John 1:1-14, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
(Originally published for December 24-25, 2005)
Free-Riders, Nominals, And Nones -- Luke 21:5-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C
The lectionary readings appointed for Proper 28 provide us with powerful messages about the futu
Insert The Other Candidate's Name Here -- Luke 20:27-38, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145 -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage Paul warns the Thessalonian congregation against being swa
What's Next? -- Luke 21:5-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C
In the wake of a contentious election campaign that has been fraught with anxiety, many people will
Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't! -- Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Not Too Quickly Shaken Or Alarmed -- Luke 20:27-38, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C
This week’s lectionary epistle passage from Second Thessalonians counsels us to “let no one dece
Covenant Or Contract? (Preview Of Tiw For April 2, 2006) -- George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
Covenant Or Contract? -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

'her Piece Is Bigger Than Mine' And Other Family Quarrels -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2010
In this week's gospel text Jesus visits the home of the sisters Mary and Martha, where he finds hims
A Love-Hate Relationship -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Kate Murphy, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
The figure of John the Baptist is one that seems oddly discordant in the middle of our "holiday" sea
Jesus, Prayer, And Mtv's 'my Super Sweet Sixteen' -- Luke 11:1-13, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Kate Murphy, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2010
This week's Old Testament and gospel texts suggest that our relationship with God is like that of ch
Shop Without Ceasing -- Matthew 11:2-11, Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
Another Black Friday -- the discount shopping bonanza that marks the day after Thanksgiving -- has c
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
Hey, Grinch -- Bring Back Christmas! -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Kate Murphy, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
On this final Sunday before Christmas, the collision between the secular Christmas season and the sa
The Unnamed 72 -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Genesis 15:1-6 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2010
This week's texts all have a common theme -- a call to a life of faith, and a forthright discussion
Responsibility -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2010
This week's gospel text can be a difficult one to approach -- while the final verse, in which Jesus
Flight Into Faith -- Matthew 2:13-23, Hebrews 2:10-18, Isaiah 63:7-9, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2010
The lectionary gospel text for the first Sunday after Christmas offers quite a contrast from the tra
Going Home -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2010
In the Old Testament text appointed by the lectionary for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Isaiah addresses
Humanness Vs. Godliness -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2010
The events of Holy Week, from the triumphal entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through the Last
An Anti-Easter World -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2010
When Mary Magdalene and the other women discovered the empty tomb, it completely changed everything
Seeing, Hearing, Discovering -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts feature the story of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus, and the
Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Is America A Christian Nation? -- John 13:31-35, Acts 11:1-8, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
The volcano in Iceland that disrupted travel and commerce throughout Europe has not been the only er
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
The Comfort Zone -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, George L. Murphy, Chris Ewing, Carlos Wilton, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 4, 2005)
Stealing Christmas? -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton, George Reed, Carter Shelley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 18, 2005)
The Prince Of Peace In A World Of Violence -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), John 1:1-14, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
(Originally published for December 24-25, 2005)
Free-Riders, Nominals, And Nones -- Luke 21:5-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C
The lectionary readings appointed for Proper 28 provide us with powerful messages about the futu
Insert The Other Candidate's Name Here -- Luke 20:27-38, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145 -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage Paul warns the Thessalonian congregation against being swa

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Hating Enough To Love Completely -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Mary Austin, Kate Murphy, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2010
Jesus stuns us this week with some words that seem at first hearing to denigrate the role of the fam
When Faithfulness Counts As Righteousness -- Luke 15:1-10, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2010
Whether we look to the headlines or in the particulars of our own experiences, life is full of diffi
Faith And Trust In A World Of Fractured Relationships -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2010
Playing The Hand We're Dealt -- Luke 17:11-19, 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7, Psalm 66:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2010
As you well know, these are often challenging days for the church.
Spiritual Wanderlust -- Luke 18:1-8, 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5, Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2010
Cogito Tute -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's gospel text features the story of "doubting" Thomas, and it raises the whole issue of do
The Necessity Of Original Sin -- Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65 -- Kate Murphy, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2010
This week's gospel text brings us the familiar parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector -- and
Who Gets To Be Mad? -- Luke 19:1-10, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2010
As if there weren't already enough reason to be outraged at the havoc the bad economy has wreaked on
A Different Plane Of Now -- Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Kate Murphy, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2010
The lectionary gospel text assigned for Proper 27 brings us a curious scene, as some Sadducees attem
Intimidation Or Imitation -- Luke 21:5-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Isaiah 65:17-25, Isaiah 12 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2010
This week's Gospel text depicts a traumatic scene, as Jesus prophesies the destruction of the temple
Of Kings And Kingdoms -- Luke 23:33-43, John 6:25-35, Philippians 4:4-9, Psalm 100 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2010
This week we observe Christ the King Sunday (or as some term it, the "Reign of Christ") -- and for t
Of Kings And Kingdoms -- Luke 23:33-43, John 6:25-35, Philippians 4:4-9, Psalm 100 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2010
This week we observe Christ the King Sunday (or as some term it, the "Reign of Christ") -- and for t
Surprise! Surprise! Surprise! -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
This week we enter the season of Advent, and while the world around us is ratcheting up into full-b
A Love-Hate Relationship -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Kate Murphy, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
The figure of John the Baptist is one that seems oddly discordant in the middle of our "holiday" sea
Shop Without Ceasing -- Matthew 11:2-11, Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
Another Black Friday -- the discount shopping bonanza that marks the day after Thanksgiving -- has c
Hey, Grinch -- Bring Back Christmas! -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Kate Murphy, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
On this final Sunday before Christmas, the collision between the secular Christmas season and the sa
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Comfort Zone -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, George L. Murphy, Chris Ewing, Carlos Wilton, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 4, 2005)
Stealing Christmas? -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton, George Reed, Carter Shelley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 18, 2005)
The Prince Of Peace In A World Of Violence -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), John 1:1-14, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
(Originally published for December 24-25, 2005)

SermonStudio

The Quiet Day Of Pentecost -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2005
Pentecost is a celebration of the church's beginning.

Worship

The Immediate Word

Surprise! Surprise! Surprise! -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
This week we enter the season of Advent, and while the world around us is ratcheting up into full-b
'her Piece Is Bigger Than Mine' And Other Family Quarrels -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2010
In this week's gospel text Jesus visits the home of the sisters Mary and Martha, where he finds hims
A Love-Hate Relationship -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Kate Murphy, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
The figure of John the Baptist is one that seems oddly discordant in the middle of our "holiday" sea
Jesus, Prayer, And Mtv's 'my Super Sweet Sixteen' -- Luke 11:1-13, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Kate Murphy, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2010
This week's Old Testament and gospel texts suggest that our relationship with God is like that of ch
Shop Without Ceasing -- Matthew 11:2-11, Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
Another Black Friday -- the discount shopping bonanza that marks the day after Thanksgiving -- has c
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
Hey, Grinch -- Bring Back Christmas! -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Kate Murphy, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
On this final Sunday before Christmas, the collision between the secular Christmas season and the sa
The Unnamed 72 -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Genesis 15:1-6 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2010
This week's texts all have a common theme -- a call to a life of faith, and a forthright discussion
Responsibility -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2010
This week's gospel text can be a difficult one to approach -- while the final verse, in which Jesus
Flight Into Faith -- Matthew 2:13-23, Hebrews 2:10-18, Isaiah 63:7-9, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2010
The lectionary gospel text for the first Sunday after Christmas offers quite a contrast from the tra
Going Home -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2010
In the Old Testament text appointed by the lectionary for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Isaiah addresses
Humanness Vs. Godliness -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2010
The events of Holy Week, from the triumphal entrance into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday through the Last
An Anti-Easter World -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2010
When Mary Magdalene and the other women discovered the empty tomb, it completely changed everything
Seeing, Hearing, Discovering -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts feature the story of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus, and the
Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Is America A Christian Nation? -- John 13:31-35, Acts 11:1-8, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
The volcano in Iceland that disrupted travel and commerce throughout Europe has not been the only er
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
The Comfort Zone -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, George L. Murphy, Chris Ewing, Carlos Wilton, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 4, 2005)
Stealing Christmas? -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton, George Reed, Carter Shelley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Originally published December 18, 2005)
The Prince Of Peace In A World Of Violence -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), John 1:1-14, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
(Originally published for December 24-25, 2005)
Free-Riders, Nominals, And Nones -- Luke 21:5-19, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C
The lectionary readings appointed for Proper 28 provide us with powerful messages about the futu
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Baptism of Our Lord
29 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
40 – Children's Sermons / Resources
25 – Worship Resources
27 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 2 | OT 2
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 3 | OT 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
George Reed
For January 11, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
At Jesus' baptism God said, "This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased." Let us so order our lives that God may say about us, "This is my beloved child in whom I am well pleased."

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when I fail to please you,
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm sure I have pleased you, but have got it wrong,
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when I neither know nor care whether I have pleased you,
Lord, have mercy.

Reading:

StoryShare

Argile Smith
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Welcoming Mr. Forsythe" by Argile Smith
"The Question about the Dove" by Merle Franke


What's Up This Week

SermonStudio

Constance Berg
"Jan wasn't baptized by the spirit, she was baptized by spit," went the joke. Jan had heard it all before: the taunting and teasing from her aunts and uncles. Sure, they hadn't been there at her birth, but they loved to tell the story. They were telling Jan's friends about that fateful day when Jan was born - and baptized.


Elizabeth Achtemeier
The lectionary often begins a reading at the end of one poem and includes the beginning of another. Such is the case here. Isaiah 42:1-4 forms the climactic last stanza of the long poem concerning the trial with the nations that begins in 41:1. Isaiah 42:5-9 is the opening stanza of the poem that encompasses 42:5-17. Thus, we will initially deal with 42:1-4 and then 42:5-9.

Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 42:1--9 (C, E); Isaiah 42:1--4, 6--7 (RC); Isaiah 42:1--7 (L)
Tony S. Everett
Jenny was employed as an emergency room nurse in a busy urban hospital. Often she worked many hours past the end of her shift, providing care to trauma victims and their families. Jenny was also a loving wife and mother, and an excellent cook. On the evening before starting her hectic work week, Jenny would prepare a huge pot of soup, a casserole, or stew; plentiful enough for her family to pop into the microwave or simmer on the stove in case she had to work overtime.

Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
Bil Keane, the creator of the Family Circus cartoon, said he was drawing a cartoon one day when his little boy came in and asked, "Daddy, how do you know what to draw?" Keane replied, "God tells me." Then the boy asked, "Then why do you keep erasing parts of it?"1
Dallas A. Brauninger
E-mail
From: KDM
To: God
Subject: Being Inclusive
Message: Are you sure, God, that you show no partiality? Lauds, KDM

The haughty part of us would prefer that God be partial, that is, partial to you and to me. We want to reap the benefits of having been singled out. On the other hand, our decent side wants God to show no partiality. We do yield a little, however. It is fine for God to be impartial as long as we do not need to move over and lose our place.
William B. Kincaid, III
There are two very different ways to think about baptism. The first approach recognizes the time of baptism as a saving moment in which the person being baptized accepts the love and forgiveness of God. The person then considers herself "saved." She may grow in the faith through the years, but nothing which she will experience after her baptism will be as important as her baptism. She always will be able to recall her baptism as the time when her life changed.
R. Glen Miles
I delivered my very first sermon at the age of sixteen. It was presented to a congregation of my peers, a group of high school students. The service, specifically designed for teens, was held on a Wednesday night. There were about 125 people in attendance. I was scared to death at first, but once the sermon got started I felt okay and sort of got on a roll. My text was 1 Corinthians 13, the love chapter, as some refer to it. The audience that night was very responsive to the sermon. I do not know why they liked it.
Someone is trying to get through to you. Someone with an important message for you is trying to get in touch with you. It would be greatly to your advantage to make contact with the one who is trying to get through to you.
Thom M. Shuman
Call To Worship
One: When the floods and storms of the world threaten
to overwhelm us,
All: God's peace flows through us,
to calm our troubled lives.
One: When the thunder of the culture's claims on us
deafens us to hope,
All: God whispers to us
and soothes our souls.
One: When the wilderness begs us to come out and play,
All: God takes us by the hand
and we dance into the garden of grace.

Prayer Of The Day
Your voice whispers
over the waters of life,
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
A Service Of Renewal

Gathering (may also be used for Gathering on Epiphany 3)
A: Light shining in the darkness,
C: light never ending.
A: Through the mountains, beneath the sea,
C: light never ending.
A: In the stillness of our hearts,
C: light never ending.
A: In the water and the word,
C: light never ending. Amen.

Hymn Of Praise
Baptized In Water or Praise And Thanksgiving Be To God Our Maker

Prayer Of The Day

CSSPlus

Good morning, boys and girls. What am I wearing this morning? (Let them answer.) I'm wearing part of a uniform of the (name the team). Have any of you gone to a game where the (name the team) has played? (Let them answer.) I think one of the most exciting parts of a game is right before it starts. That's when all the players are introduced. Someone announces the player's name and number. That player then runs out on the court of playing field. Everyone cheers. Do you like that part of the game? (Let them answer.) Some people call that pre-game "hype." That's a funny term, isn't it?
Good morning! Let me show you this certificate. (Show the
baptism certificate.) Does anyone know what this is? (Let them
answer.) Yes, this is a baptism certificate. It shows the date
and place where a person is baptized. In addition to this
certificate, we also keep a record here at the church of all
baptisms so that if a certificate is lost we can issue a new one.
What do all of you think about baptism? Is it important? (Let
them answer.)

Let me tell you something about baptism. Before Jesus
Good morning! How many of you have played Monopoly? (Let
them answer.) In the game of Monopoly, sometimes you wind up in
jail. You can get out of jail by paying a fine or, if you have
one of these cards (show the card), you can get out free by
turning in the card.

Now, in the game of life, the real world where we all live,
we are also sometimes in jail. Most of us never have to go to a
real jail, but we are all in a kind of jail called "sin." The
Bible tells us that when we sin we become prisoners of sin, and

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